Dry Eye Causes & Symptoms in Sunnyvale, CA

At Silicon Valley Eye Physicians, we specialize in dry eye treatment as well as the management of a number of common eye conditions and diseases in the area of Sunnyvale, CA. Dry eye is certainly one of the most common ocular issues that brings patients into our office. By understanding the common causes, risk factors, and symptoms of dry eye, you can be sure to seek the treatment you need.

Common Causes and Risk Factors of Dry Eye

There are many potential causes of dry eye. For some, the problem is mostly hereditary, making those with family members who suffer from dry eye more common to develop it themselves at some point in their lives. However, there are plenty of medical causes of dry eye syndrome as well. For example, those with autoimmune diseases and eyelid abnormalities are much more likely to develop this problem. Furthermore, taking certain prescription medications can lead to dry eye, as this is a common side effect of dehydrating medicines.

Other potential causes of dry eye include:

Tear gland failure

Neurological conditions

Reduced tear production due to aging

Finally, environmental factors like smoky conditions, windy conditions, and dry climate can also lead to dry eye.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Most people who suffer from dry eye report that their eyes feel itchy and irritated. In some cases, redness of the eyes may also occur. Others with more severe cases of dry eye syndrome typically report that it feels like they have a foreign body stuck in one or both of their eyes, which can be associated with a gritty feeling that is very uncomfortable. Some less common symptoms of dry eye also include:

Excess mucous production from the eye

Light sensitivity

Difficulty wearing contacts comfortably

Watery eyes

If symptoms of dry eye are persistent and noticeable enough to affect your everyday life, such as making it difficult to drive or meet your daily obligations, then it may be time to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor.

Treatment from an Experienced Dry Eye Doctor

The good news is that dry eye treatment options are available by our dry eye doctor here at Silicon Valley Eye Physicians. Of course, we will want to begin with an official diagnosis so we can be sure your symptoms are being caused by dry eye syndrome. Typically, we will diagnose dry eye through tear film composition testing and an evaluation of your eyes' tear production levels. We will also want to review your medical history, lifestyle, and any medications you are currently taking to make an accurate diagnosis.

If it turns out you do have dry eye, we will begin exploring possible treatment options to suit your needs and lifestyle. Generally, we will want to begin treatment with the use of prescription eye drops, which can provide immediate relief from itchiness, redness, and other symptoms. Depending on the severity and cause of your dry eye, however, we may also recommend lifestyle changes (such as modifying your computer/screen use habits), adding humidifiers to your home/office, and possibly speaking to your doctor about changing your medications. If underlying tear gland issues are a cause, we may be able to address these in our office as well.

Request an Appointment with Our Santa Clara, CA Dry Eye Clinic

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms of dry eye, be sure to contact our Santa Clara CA dry eye clinic to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. We accept all major insurance plans, and new patients are always welcome here. You can reach us by calling (408) 739-6200 (Sunnyvale office) or (408) 492-1111 (Santa Clara office).

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